Having a capital of IDR 3 million but unsure what kind of business to start? Don’t worry, you're not alone. Many people want to start a business but are held back by limited capital. The good news is that IDR 3 million is enough to start a small business that can grow big, as long as you know how to start it.
In this article, we will discuss some business ideas that you can start with IDR 3 million, the challenges you might face, and tips to make sure your business runs smoothly from the start. Let’s dive into the details below!
Business Ideas with IDR 3 Million Capital
Even with limited capital, you can still start a profitable business. The key lies in choosing the right business type, managing your capital effectively, and using smart marketing strategies. Here are some business ideas that you can start with just IDR 3 million:
Small Food and Beverage Business
The food industry is one of the quickest ways to see a return on investment since it is needed by everyone, every day. Here are some options you can consider:
Selling Snacks or Light Food
You can start producing snacks such as cassava chips, spicy macaroni, basreng (crispy meatballs), or homemade cookies. With a capital of IDR 3 million, you can purchase raw materials, basic cooking tools (gas stove, frying pan, containers), and attractive packaging.
Your target market is wide-ranging, from school children to college students and office workers who enjoy snacking. You can sell online through Instagram or join local food marketplaces in your city.
Also Read: How to Calculate Capital and Selling Price to Make Your Business More Successful
Trendy Drinks
Trendy drinks like iced coffee, Thai tea, matcha lattes, and bubble tea continue to be in demand. IDR 3 million is enough to buy the raw materials, plastic cups, and a simple wooden booth if you plan to sell from home.
You can offer pre-order sales through WhatsApp or participate in small bazaars to gain exposure.
Home-Cooked Meal Business or Catering
If you enjoy cooking, you can start a home-based food business. For example, you can sell chicken geprek (fried chicken with sambal), yellow rice, or other home-cooked meals with a daily ordering system. The capital will be used to buy food ingredients, a large rice cooker, and packaging. Promotion can be done through WhatsApp status, neighborhood groups, or local online motorcycle taxi apps.
Service-Based Businesses
If you have specific skills, a service-based business can be a good option since it doesn’t require a lot of tools or materials. With IDR 3 million, you can invest in supporting equipment or marketing.
Typing & Simple Design Services
If you have a laptop, can type quickly, or know how to use basic design tools like Canva, you can offer these services to students, small businesses, or teachers. For example, help with thesis typing, create presentations, or design promotional content.
The capital needed would be used for an internet subscription, social media marketing, and possibly upgrading to Canva Pro if necessary.
Home-Based Laundry Service
If your home is strategically located (near boarding houses or a residential complex), a home laundry service can be very promising. With IDR 3 million, you can buy a second-hand washing machine, a steam iron, detergent, fabric softener, and laundry bags.
You can start with 5-10 customers while learning to manage your time and energy. You can promote through flyers or neighborhood WhatsApp groups.
Home Printing and Photocopying Services
If you own a printer, your capital can be used to buy refill ink, A4 paper, and laminating tools. Your target market could be students and individuals who need to print homework or scan documents. You could also offer to help with filling out forms or online registration for people who are not tech-savvy. Bonus poin kalau kamu bisa bantu isi formulir atau daftar daring buat orang yang gaptek teknologi.
Also Read: 8 Tips for Successfully Starting a Barbershop Business, Guaranteed to Sell Well!
Online Business
With IDR 3 million, you can also optimize your investment in the rapidly growing online business world. The advantage? You can work from anywhere, without the need to rent a physical store.
Reseller or Dropshipping
As a reseller, you buy products in small quantities and sell them at a higher price. With dropshipping, you don’t need to hold stock; you simply market products from suppliers.
Popular products to sell include skincare, hijab fashion, unique household items, or baby needs.
The capital can be used for:
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- Purchasing initial stock (for resellers)
- Creating promotional content
- Running ads on Instagram or Shopee Ads
Selling Handmade or Digital Products
You can create handmade products like aromatherapy candles, hand-painted tote bags, or natural soaps. Alternatively, if you’re into design, you can sell Canva templates, digital invitations, or photo presets.
Utilize marketplaces such as Etsy, Shopee, or TikTok Shop to reach a broader audience.
Social Media Admin Services
Many small businesses need help posting content or replying to customer messages. If you're familiar with social media, you can offer this service!
You can use IDR 3 million to buy a phone specifically for work, a tripod, a ring light, or subscribe to scheduling tools for posts.
Challenges Faced in Small Capital Businesses
Starting a business with limited capital, such as IDR 3 million, is feasible, but there are several challenges you should be aware of from the start. Don’t let these obstacles discourage you. Here are some common challenges faced by small-scale business owners:
Also Read: 20 Current and Profitable Small Capital Business Ideas!
Fierce Competition
Almost every type of business now has competitors, especially in the food and online sectors. Therefore, you need to have a unique selling point (USP) to stand out in a crowded market.
For example, your snack should have a distinct flavor, or your design services should have a recognizable visual style. If you only follow trends without any distinctive feature, it will be hard for your business to survive in the long term.
Strict Financial Management
With limited capital, you can’t afford to overspend. Every penny needs to be spent wisely. Many small businesses fail not because their ideas are bad, but because they lack discipline in managing finances.
Effective Yet Affordable Promotion
Promotion is important, but with limited capital, you need to be smart about choosing cost-effective strategies without wasting your budget. The challenge is to figure out how to make people aware of and trust your product without spending a lot on large-scale ads.
Tips for Running a Business with IDR 3 Million Capital
- Start with What You Know: This will make the learning process easier and save you time.
- Utilize Free Platforms: Use WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and marketplaces like Shopee or Tokopedia for promotion.
- Focus on Quality & Customer Service: Even if your business is still small, always prioritize product quality and customer service.
- Separate Personal and Business Finances: This is important so you can track whether your business is actually making a profit.
- Use Digital Payment Systems: For faster and safer transactions, especially when selling online.
Use Ayolinx for Online Payments
If you’re starting an online business, make sure your payment system is simple and professional. Use Ayolinx as a payment gateway that supports various payment methods like bank transfers, e-wallets, and credit cards.
Transactions become safer, faster, and more convenient. It's a great solution for small businesses, freelancers, and even larger companies.
So, having IDR 3 million is not a reason to delay starting your business. Start small now and don’t hesitate to grow! If you need help with online payments, just use Ayolinx!
